Curt Schilling’s Official Blog

I’d like to first pass along our sincerest sympathy and condolences to the surviving members of the Nuxhall family. Mr Nuxhall was one of my favorite media personalities over the past 20 some years in baseball. An incredibly kind man with time for everyone.

His stories were ALL funny and you could always feel his passion and love for the game when you had a chance to sit down and talk with him, an honor I had many times. Sorry to see such a kind and wonderful man, someone who did nothing but good for the game, go. He’ll be missed.

Please don’t send me any more requests to ‘talk to Mike’. I can assure you that Mike Lowell knows exactly how I, and all his teammates feel about him. He’s invaluable on and OFF the field. What some don’t understand is that this is a business decision for both sides. We all get that. Mike is negotiating what might be his last long and large contract, he has every right and obligation to do the right thing for he and his family. You cannot begrudge him that. I honestly think it will work out and he’ll be back here, if that doesn’t happen I, like everyone else on this team, will HATE to see him leave.

At the same time we understand, as you need to, that what Mike Lowell signs for and negotiates is no ones business but his and his families, and he’s earned that right. I know he loved being here, he appreciated and acknowledged this team, these fans, often.

Seeing as he came from being ‘the throw in’ and a guy who fans everywhere complained about ‘slow hands’ and ‘salary added to get Beckett’ to pretty much the MVP or Co-MVP of this team speaks volumes about who and what Mike Lowell is. I want him back here, I think he wants to be back here, and I think the Sox want him back here. The only opinions that matter are his and the teams and if both sides want it badly enough it will happen.

Hats off to Alex Rodriguez. From everything I have heard he took matters into his own hands to get the outcome, returning to NY, that he wanted. I don’t know any specifics but anytime a player takes matters into his own hands to insure he gets what he wants out of his contract I think it’s a great thing. Kudos to Kenny Rogers for doing what looks to be the same thing.

I have always felt agents have a place, but I also think that at some point in your career an agent becomes baggage. That’s not all of them because some of them I know are very good, honest and trustworthy people. But I believe there comes a time in every players career where the numbers and the market are pretty self explanatory. Paying someone 5% or more for the task of negotiating a contract is wasted money in many cases. The main concern is that there are many, if not most, major league teams who would barter a player into an embarassing contract without an agent being present.

Many players feel very uncomfortable negotiating their own salaries. Others, and in many cases, are from other countries and cultures and the language barrier presents a massive hurdle that adds immense barriers to negotiating your own deal.

Bottom line is anytime a player takes his own future into his hands I think the end result is the player and the team and its fans win.

As far as Barry goes, I’ve been asked many many questions. I have no response. It’s a sad day for baseball, added to a litany of other sad days we’ve brought on ourselves over the past decade. I think like many other people I just want it to go away and want the game to get back into the paper for what it is.

Very early in my career Barry and I were represented by the same agents. We became friends and I was able to get to know him a bit. I attended a dinner our agents had to honor Barry for his 2nd or 3rd MVP, can’t remember. Over the next few years things changed but regardless of what anyone thinks or says I don’t wish anyone on this planet to go through what he is going through.

In 1997 when I gave my life to Christ a pretty cool thing happened. I lost the ability to hate anything or anyone. I’ve gotten mad, said stupid and bad things, but I truly don’t hate anyone or anything. Hating takes way too much energy and effort. There’s way too much to do and experience in life to waste time hating so I just don’t.

Along those lines, something I am sure will generate irrational and short sighted responses, is my support in the upcoming election of Senator McCain. I’ve had ample time to do the research I felt I needed to do and while I think I am in favor of many of the issues he stands for/against, it still all boils down to the fact that over the last 8 years of our lives Shonda and I have gotten to know he and his wife. At the end of the day, I trust this man. I know, regardless of my opinions, or outside pressures, that this man will stick to his guns, and be himself, regardless of pressure from outside influences.

Add to the fact that for the first time in awhile we have a true American hero running for our nations highest office. That matters to me, a lot. This man was a POW during the Vietnam war, and when his family background was uncovered he was given the ability to be set free by his captors. The only condition was that he had to sign documents that basically absolved the Vietnamese of any wrong doing and reflected poorly on the U.S. and its involvement.

He flat out said no. Has anyone else running in this election had a character test of this magnitude? Even close? Of all the candidates that might have been tested, how did they fare?

Rather than get released and sent home to his family, he made the decision to remain with his men, his brothers. Awesome stuff. That’s not the only reason he’ll get my vote, but it for damn sure makes me feel good about the integrity, honor, loyalty and sacrifice that this man will make.

At the end of the day, when you think about who you want to be your president, is there ANY issue our President will reside over, decide on, that is more important than those traits? Senator McCain possesses those in spades, and that’s a big deal to me.

I also wanted to add a link to something for two reasons.

1) I don’t want to elect someone, or hope we don’t, in either party, because regardless of their values, stances or beliefs they represent the ‘best chance’ to beat the other parties candidate.

2) I hope voting for ‘the best PERSON’ becomes something meaningful over the next year. We are a country in massive amounts of turmoil. We need someone to lead us that is truly a LEADER. A leader by character and design and not because they’re elected to lead.

I am not in any way affiliated with the site below nor do I know who or what runs the site. There are comments on it I believe in and know to be true.

Like this:

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How much do you think A-Rod was really angry with Boras and wanted to be back in New York (“It was his idea to opt out, I wanted to stay a Yankee, etc.) versus A-Rod using a much reviled man in baseball as a scapegoat (“Crap, everyone hates me for opting out of an obscene contract for another obscene contract during Game 4… who do I blame?”). I don’t really want to give either the benefit of the doubt, but you’re more an insider than I am… what do you think?

Mr. Schilling,
Well, you’re a great pitcher. However, I firmly believe that baseball and politics should not mix. I know their have been several celebrities in politics recently, but that is not their place.

I agree that it would be a tragic loss to not have Mr. Lowell on the team next year. I also understand that it’s a personal move. But IMHO, the amount baseball players make is completely insane. I hope you give a good portion of your salary to charity. How much and where to? I’d like to know because I am donating money to charity in people’s honor, and want to know where.

Sorry for the long (and overly formal) comment.

RESPONSE: Baseball and politics DO mix when a baseball player offers an opinion on politics. My right as a citizen of this country is one of free speech, same as yours. I have no right to tell you who, when, why or where to comment on your politics nor do you have any right to tell me the same. Who I vote for and who I endorse are my right and my opinion alone. As such, this is my blog, and I completely understand people having opinions far different than mine on anything, which is their right, but please don’t come here and tell me what to write or how to write it. I’ll be able to handle the mistakes I make and don’t make. Are you someone that truly believes a persons place of employment or status in life should dictate how little or how much they comment on politics? If so that’s too bad. My vote, when taking in my salary and life long earnings, STILL counts the exact same amount as yours.

I don’t expect anyone to vote for someone I endorse, just like I don’t vote for anyone that is endorsed by someone I don’t know. You vote for the person you feel is your best choice. Telling someone who they should and should not vote for is just plain stupid. Telling someone what they should and shouldn’t talk about is pretty much the same thing. The real REAL easy solution to having problems with things I say is to not come here.

I agree that our salaries are insane, sports revenue is insane. However I don’t envision you as someone who, should your boss walk in and tell you he was raising your salary to 10 million a year tomorrow, would turn it down. You earn what you can given your skillset and do what you can.

As far as where and whom Shonda and I donate our money, again, if it’s not something you support or are involved in then that’s pretty much none of your business. How we spend our money is actually none of your business in any case. I’ll add that none of the preceeding is true if you are in fact an employee of the IRS, which if that is the case, you already know where and how much and have no need to ask here.

Where our charitable efforts and money go is clearly posted all over this website. If you support any of these, thank you, if not that’s cool too, it’s your choice to do what you choose to do with your money, just like it is ours.

Thank you for voting for McCain. That’s 1 less vote for Rudy Sleasiani but in the end, a democrat will be back in office, thank God, with how this country has been run into the ground the past 7 plus years.

I agree that Curt Schilling (and Sean Penn, the Dixie Chicks, etc) have every right to support politicians and express political/social views. The idea that free speech is a right of everyone except celebrities is just silly.

I’d even say that if a celebrity has strong feelings about a politician or an issue, you could argue that they *should* speak out and try and have (what they feel to be) a positive effect on things.

Having said that, I think it’s also important that people take these endorsements with a grain of salt. While we may admire the way someone plays baseball (or acts, or sings), they don’t necessarily have more (or less) insight into politics or society than the rest of us.

Of course, celebrities who choose to speak out must accept that some people will disagree with them enough that they’ll no longer be fans.

I think society works best when everyone is allowed to express their views. As long as celebrities refrain from libel, slander, or egregiously bad taste, I have no problem with them speaking their mind.

Curt
thank you for your post. i think its a great thing to have players like you have websites like this to get one-on-one contact with the fans, keep up the great work. anyways, i agree with you on everything you said. i think people do need to respect mike’s privacy…he has done so much for this team and city, we certainly owe him that. glad to have you and your family sticking around boston for next year, mr. schilling. should be a great year. thanks again for posting.

Curt…..
I have only been reading your Blog for about 2 months, and I enjoy reading it greatly. Being from Boston, I of course thank you for you efforts here and am glad you will be finishing out your career with us. I totally defend your right as to posting your political views on here (and I happen to agree with them too…lol). People always have to find something to complain about, otherwise they wouldn’t be happy.
I wish you and your family a very happy and healthy Thanksgiving, and my girlfriend wants me to tell you that she thinks your hot.

Curt: I am still not sure who I will vote for yet, but Sen. McCain is a true American hero, whom I commend for his service to our country. As for Baseball It was sad to see that Bonds was indicted. Not for him, but for Baseball in general. Thank You !!!!

As a 49 y/o Sox fan, thanks again to you and the rest of the team for another WS championship…and a great season of Sox watching.

Growing up in Rhode Island, baseball became an ingrained part of my life because my friends and I would play pickup games every day until dark and in anything other than a torrential downpour. Organized baseball was a part of our experience through little league and school, but only a fraction. We played because we just lived (and loved) to play.

For todays kids, that of course has changed for many reasons. I never see kids playing pickup games on the ballfields here in SE Pennsylvania, where I now live, or on my old field back in R.I when I am there visiting. How do you see this impacting the game long term…or do you think it will?

Curt,
I have no problem with A-Rod or any other athlete making insane money. If the Yankees are willing to pay 270 million to Mr. April , that’s up to them. As far as earning based on a skill set; While true on one level, it fails to consider the disabled and those who who can no longer go out and apply the skills they’ve lost to accident or illness.
You’re probably right when you say that most folks wouldn’t refuse the massive raise. But how cool would it be if some one were to say. ” no thanks. I have enough.” hmmmmm…….

Saying that Baseball and politics shouldn’t mix is like saying being an actor and politics shouldn’t mix, or being a plumber and politics shouldn’t mix.

Politics and every career should mix. Everyone should have some opinions, and hopefully educated opinions about politics. If they want to share them on a blog, that’s their choice. It’s my choice to read the blogs or not.

In regards to salaries of baseball players, it’s the beauty of living in a Capitalistic society. Professional sport players make as much as they do, because they can. Pure and simple. Sports are a major business, and it is only right that this money should trickle down to the players, instead of just with the owners. If you are against this, then you shouldn’t watch the games, go to the games or buy the t-shirts or otherwise sponsor them.

Curt, I have tremendous respect for McCain but I cannot vote for him because the major issue, IMO, is the Supreme Court. My guess is that three justices will retire in the next four years. More appointments like Thomas and Scalia would mean the end of a woman’s right to choose. I guess that we disagree on this issue but I needed to state my opinion. Keep up the good work.

Curt…I work for CNET Networks, the parent company of Gamespot.com among others. Our former CEO recently launched a site (that I am not affiliated with at all) that I thought you might really enjoy.

Here is the site’s description:

“Our hope is that Political Base will be your source for lively conversation and information on political issues, candidates and opinion. We have used publicly available data and media resources, such as the FEC and YouTube videos to enhance the conversation. The rest of our content is contributed by our bloggers, community and moderators.”

A well done and thoughtful entry. You’ve hit a bunch of nails on the head. I think McCain could be a good choice, but I’m not sold on anyone just yet.

You know, I’ve read some pretty egregious replies here in the past that I figured you must’ve read when you approved them and was astounded you hadn’t commented on them, but pleased: a reply would have only validated that stupidity. I’m surprised you took the time to respond to the tool that suggested you should let us know where your earnings go. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVED it and you nailed it all, but in doing so you validated that guy’s comment.

Hey Curt – As someone who disagrees with you on politics pretty strongly, I found the section on Senator McCain to be fair and well-written. That said, I am curious as to whether you think you’d support someone else for president if you knew them really well too. Do you know your former home-state governor Mitt Romney?

Response-Shonda and I have met Mr and Mrs Romney a few times. Having done a couple of local events. I like him and from what I have seen I think he’s a good man.

Hey Curt, I just wanted to say Thank You for taking time to recognize and give a few kind words about The Ol’ Lefthander Joe Nuxhall. I am a big Reds fan and it’s nice to see that someone outside of the midwest and as big a name as you recognize and appreciate all Joe did for the game.

We’ll miss ya Joe, you’re on your final rounding of third and heading for home…..

Lets get this straight A-Rod went where he could get the money. This blatant BS of him always wanting to be in NY is complete BS or he never would have opted out of his deal. A-Rod is out for A-Rod and I hope in 100 years we will be laughing at the curse of A-Rod.

second- Mike Lowell can do what he likes but another BS opinion is that he wants to be in Boston. If he wanted to be in Boston he would be in Boston. PERIOD. Best for his family? Come on. He just came off a 36 million dollar contract. If he seriously can’t live off that money then he needs better business people on his side.

There is not a single Politician on the planet that is trustworthy. It really doesn’t matter who you vote for unless you are very poor or really rich. No one cares about the people barely getting by. That is why it doesn’t matter who you put into office. They are going to do what they want to do.

You as a baseball player have a right to your opinion. Just like the idiot Dixie Chicks have a right to their opinion. I myself also have that right not to ever buy another Dixie Chick CD because I think they are horrible human beings and bad musicians.

I don’t think people have a big problem with you having an opinion. IMO the problem starts when idiots like the Dixie Chicks think because they are “musicians” (and I use that term lightly) that they have the right to shove their opinion down my throat. I love Country music and sometimes I can’t get away from the radio station quick enough to have their opinion shoved down my throat. So the whole “you don’t have to listen to them” blah, blah, blah doesn’t always work.

I happen to agree with your opinion on politics but I come here to read your thoughts on baseball. I am sure others feel that way also.

The United States seems to be the only place on the planet that wants other Countries to hate us. We try and make ourselves look bad when we have war demonstrations on Veterans day or bad mouth our President. In turn we are making the entire world hate us. You don’t see other Countries citizens trying to make their Country look bad.

Hey Curt, I just want to wish you and your family a happy Thanksgiving. I think your a great player and person. Its great when athletes and other celebrities give their time back to the fans. I have been reading your site now for a few months and I think its great. Can’t wait till next year when you guys come to play the angels. God Bless and Good Luck next Season.

Curt, good on you for giving GoSox555 a bit of your mind. While you and I are as opposite on politics as we probably are on religion and whatever else is controversial, this is your blog and you have the right to say anything you want on it, regardless of how much money you make and what your job is. That’s what blogging is all about. I highly doubt that too many people will say, “Curt supports McCain so I will too.” Lordy, I hope we are all smart enough to remember to vote, first of all, and to choose the candidate that most represents our interests, our beliefs, and our hopes for the future. That’s why I’m supporting John Edwards, because he’s the ONLY candidate that even acknowledges the poor and disenfranchised in our country. That’s MY most important issue, and whether or not he was a POW has no bearing on how he would be President, imo.

But I’m SO thrilled to hear you aren’t supporting Mitt. After what he’s done to decimate Massachusetts, setting back children’s services years and years, I don’t know how anyone could support him, never mind believe a word he says.

I’m heartened that Mike Lowell still is considering Boston. He’s a neighbor and we’re all so happy to have him around town. He’s a great guy and one that is of great value to both the Sox and to Massachusetts. I hope he remains here long after his last contract expires.

Have a great Thanksgiving and remember, you can’t eat too much this year. :-)

Hey Curt. Right now my top three choices, in order, are Fred, Mitt, and then McCain. I like all the candidates but that’s my order right now.

All of them bring different traits to the table. Fred has, in my opinion, the best grasp of first principles of individual liberty (well, except for maybe Ron Paul, but he has too many negative qualities for me). Mitt has the best fiscal credentials. McCain is unassailable on many of the most important conservative issues, but he falls down on a few others.

Curt, ever thought of going on Bill Maher’s show and telling him like it is?
I don’t know if you’ve ever seen his “show”, sometimes I watch for a couple of minutes to hear the likes of Sean Penn or some other ignorant Hollywood liberal say the darnedest things.

I always thought that going on that show would end up in a ‘Chrissy Evert vs Jim Rome’ moment. Two guys with strong opinions who would most likely agree on nothing. One guy who has used his medium to basically call the United States Armed Forces Cowards. Don’t think that would be a fun experience for either of us.

Curt, thanks for mentioning Joe Nuxhall. He has truly rounded third and headed for home, and will be sadly missed out here. Hoping to get to all three Sox/Reds games when you guys come out next June as I can never seem to make it home to Fenway. Hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday and a good offseason.

Regardless, an excellent endorsement, whatever the Senator’s mass appeal or chances of winning may be at the moment. McCain has always appealed to me as a broad-minded politician of firm resolve, an independent mind and unwavering principles. I was therefore devastated to see these qualities exploited in the most hideous fashion by the Bush-machine in South Carolina, circa 2000. I certainly he fares better this time around and that your support will augment his chances to whatever extent possible.

And a belated congratulations (and thank you) on being a member of the 2008 Boston Red Sox.

Odd that you supported a presidential candidate in ’04 that ran one of the nastiest smear campaigns in the history of American politics (SC Primary) against this “American Hero”.

”Now you can trust me on this: President Bush is the right leader for our country.” -Curt Schilling

Trust you on what to throw Alex Rodriguez in a 2-2 count with 2 outs and a runner on second, sure. Trust you when you tell me who the best candidate is for this country (especially in light of the above comment), not so much.

Curt: Speaking as a boxox fan since the YAZ days, thanks. As a McCain fan since his first run for president I have to say I was disappointed in this run when he seemed to be courting the very same folks who brought him down eight years ago. My belief is he needs to make a bold move to win all of us back who have lost the enthusiasm we had the first time around. Maybe something that shows us how his straight talk can bridge the red/blue divide and restore America’s respect with the rest of the world.

Curt, great stuff and I really liked your responses to some of the comments. I definately agree, it is YOUR blog, if someone does not like what you say, do not come back or respond. Anyway, thanks for your thoughts and comments, it is great to hear them. I also beleive that John McCain is a great american and I really wish he had more support. As most elections have gone recently however, it appears that it will come down to the lesser of two evils.

As far as Mike, and Bonds, thanks for those comments as well. Mike does deserve to do whatever he choses, he has done a great job for Red Sox nation already and from here on out, he is always deserving of our respect and admiration. Just as you are I might add.

McCain is weak. I’m into Ron Paul, another “true American hero”. Unfortunately, the establishment will never accept a freedom loving Constitutional President. The neo-cons and liberals have proven they are serious about destroying our nation.

I am happy to see you are back. Can’t wait to try some games coming out of 38 Studios too.

It is remarkable how people run for cover once you mention politics in any public forum. As a professor of English at a major research university, I see my students constantly watching the classroom dynamic to see what point of view they should take on issues of politics, race, religion, and sex. They are concerned with their image amongst their peers and highly aware of potential labeling that can occur when speaking one’s mind. As such, they often shy away from taking any sort of stand or placing one’s stake firmly in one camp or another.

Aristotle viewed politics as the most authoritative science, and, as such, it was the duty of every man to engage in political discussion for the benefit of the nation. Curt is exercising his right and his duty as a citizen of this nation to engage in political debate, and in turn, you (the readers) have a right to discuss political questions with Curt in return. Note the key word in my previous sentence, “discussion.” That means a rational, free-flowing exchange of ideas, not mudslinging, name calling, or willful denigration.

I appreciate Curt’s candor on his political beliefs as his words are well-chosen and well-articulated. I now challenge the other readers of this blog to respond to Curt’s statements in a rational, scholarly manner that relies on facts and personal conviction rather than loose rhetoric and brazen insults. If you disagree with his political views, then it is your responsibility to counter his viewpoints respectfully and in a manner fit for an American citizen of intellect. To trivialize an entire political camp (ie Conservatives) based on your belief that George Bush is a bad president is representative only of your own ignorance. If one wishes to assert that Kerry would have been a better choice, then it is that person’s burden to present examples, facts, and logical arguments to fully encapsulate their viewpoint.

With that said, I am excited that you are returning, Curt, and I look forward to seeing you pitch at Fenway Park once again. While I believe McCain is a good man, I do have concerns about his age and his health. One cannot ignore his courage, determination, and experience, and he has my vote, at least at the moment.

The lesser of the two evils. It’s like replacing Art Shell, there’s only upside.

Agreed with ignoreant1 above. McCain used to be one of a handful of politicians that was capable of independent thought. When posed a question he didn’t simply espouse the party line, but you could see him working through an issue and formulating an objective opinion. It was refreshing. At some point in the last few years it became clear that had changed, probably right around the time he spoke at Falwell’s university after calling him an “agent of intolerance”.

That being said, I’d gladly vote for him over Giuliani or Hillary, hell I’d rather write in Adam Hyzdu than punch the ballot for either of those two.

I just want to say that even though I disagree with you totally polically, I still feel you are a great athlete, family man, teammate, and philanthropist. I blogged that I was so happy you are back with the Red Sox and I mean it. Your right to support anyone for president is your business. I am a liberal left wing tree hugging ex-hippy who is on the fence between Hillary and Obama but I still love ya.

Hi Curt,
Just found your site, along with finding it very interesting on all accounts. Great job you did with the entire Boston Red Sox team this year bringing the World Series to all of New England fans again. I don’t watch many of the games during the regular season, as am busy going off to watch one of my grandson’s playing baseball, first with Babe Ruth, then he also plays Legion Ball. Myles is 17 years old, a Senior this year, and of course as with all grandma’s he’s one great baseball player. Myles is 6’5″ already and as you know still growing, he is in a size 16 shoe already, glad my daughter has to buy his shoes and not me. LOL on that one, but he’s a good kid, sure he would not like seeing his grandma calling him a kid, but to me he will always be my kid. As are my own three children. No matter how old they get they never stop being kids, which is a great way to look at it. My other grandson plays Babe Ruth ball, but that is it. Then I have four grand daughter’s and one that is into all sports, and of course Myles sister. She is very good in all sports, and just made the 8th grade basketball team, first game is the day before Thanksgiving so of course I’ll be going off to that one.
Also am very happy to see that you like myself support John McCain, he was here in New Hampshire this past weekend and I had a chance to see and talk with him. What an honest down to earth man he is. One great American Hero he is, along with I’m looking forward to his being in the White House soon. I have no doubt that he is the best and most honest man for the job and will do an awesome job for all of us.
Am looking forward to hearing from you, along with am wondering if you have a page on myspace as believe it or not at the young age of 63 I do, and have many photos and wonderful friends I’ve met since on line, but many more have gathered around in support of Senator McCain.
Again great job with this site, and keep up the good work.
Wishing you and your family a fantastic Thanksgiving day.
Countrygirl from New Hampshire

Good read, Curt. Stopped in to see if you had posted anything about Lowell’s new contract. I look forward to your thoughts on ’08 now that the pieces are falling into place.

I completely agree with you on supporting a candidate. Some candidates will tell you what you want to hear and forget the promises once elected. A candidate with character will live up to promises. At times, you may not like that, but you will never be surprised.

For this reason, I, like you, am supporting McCain. He’s not a perfect idealogical fit, but I trust him.

FWIW, W was just like this. From tax cuts to pay raises for the military to Life to Iraq to amnesty for illegals, nothing he did surprised me. I don’t support his position on the border, but I do appreciate his commitment to those who voted for him.

See if you can get Mike Lowell to post something here and take a couple questions and comments!

Curt, Thanks for bringing 2 WS titles to the Sox. We really appreciate all you have done for the team and for your charitable work.

Considering you also endorsed Bush, I’m not sure why anyone would value your opinion on McCain. Also, can we get past the biography as reasons for a vote? There were thousands of POWs in Vietnam, surely that isn’t a qualification to be President. Maybe having sound tax policies, sound foreign relations policies, and not going from an independently-minded politician to Bush’s personal boot licker are other reasons to consider someone other than McCain. Besides, if McCain can’t manage a $50M campaign war chest, how can he manage the country’s $2T budget?

Again, thanks for the great pitching and leadership, and we all appreciate your outspoken ways!

Hey, About Sen. McCain: though he of course is an American hero, I am not so enamoured of his behavior in the 2000 campaign. But it’s politics, I guess. For you: reasonable, intelligent stuff about Mike Lowell, and though I do not jump to the conclusion that he left anything on the table, if in fact he did, it is his own business. I’m really, really happy that he’s staying, and not just a little bit because of comments from his teammates, including you, who seem to really, really want him in Boston. One last thing (a professorial nag): try Strunk & White, The Elements of Style. A 2-hour read, a lifetime of good advice on writing. Jakke

I’m with you on choosing the proper leader as opposed to the party.
And my vote is up for grabs. I want someone to believe in, and someone who believes in what they stand for, and isn’t just saying what they think will win them the election.

Unlike some others I think you have the right to say whatever the hell you want to say. Of course I don’t agree with you on , well, most political subjects, but that is SUPPOSED to be what this country is about people who aren’t alike arguing and sometimes yelling at each other to find the best way possible. As a progressive, an athiest, an independant registered voter,a third generation Red Sox fan, and a father we may differ on a lot of things. That’s true of most Americans. Bill Clinton (for all slick weasel-ee things he did in 8 years) said “There is nothing wrong with America that cant be fixed with what’s right with America” . I hope our next president feels the same way. Meritocracy Now!

Glad Mike Lowell is back.

And…have you tried acupuncture as part of your physical training regime. My wife is a MSTCM, and I have no idea how Chinese medicine works but for over 5k years it has. Now Western Medicine is embracing some of that practice. Try it out.

Curt,
I needed to respond to your comments to redsox5555.
I agree with everything you had to say!
I have not met Mr. McCain, but he IS a Hero based on what I have read/heard about him.
The fact that I am not in your position of celebrity is a reflection of the facts that:
1.) I never possessed as much athletic talent as you.
2.) I never worked as hard as you to develop the talent I had.
Due to your celebrity, you are in a position to meet, and form personal relationships with people that can have an impact on the future of our nation.
You do not have a right to express your opinion, you have an obligation.
The fact that I would vote for John McCain was made long ago, and I use whatever influence I have to convince others to do the same. You can (obviously) have influence on many more people than I (as a small business person) could ever have.
We agree on this subject, but more importantly, I would like to stress that as a celebrity you have the opportunity to influence the choices made by many.
Your actions on and off the field are a reflection of your core values this will impact decisions made.
I, for one, am in favor of using your forum to promote positive change, whether it relates to ALS or the Presidency.
steve

Curt,
I don’t want this to be read the wrong way, so let me state at the get go that John Kerry’s is not a “hero” on the same level as John McCain, or really anywhere close to it. I mean McCain was a prisoner of war for a considerable length of time and showed great courage and perserverance. But, to suggest that Kerry is not an american hero at all is akin to saying the same of all the soldiers currently fighting in Iraq or to say the same of the great Ted Williams. Even with all of the largely political debate over the legitimacy of Kerry’s service record, there is no denying that he fought valiantly for his country and did it a great service. He also ran for President and was a top candidate for that office. Therefore, I belive that you were a bit off the mark when you stated: “Add to the fact that for the first time in awhile we have a true American hero running for our nations highest office.” Again, I am not trying to compare/contrast the service records of these men, as that would be both a futile and impossible task. I am simply stating that Kerry’s service durring the Vietnam War was admirable and worthy of recognition. While I won’t be supporting McCain in the upcoming election, I do respect your support for him and truly believe that he is a person of the highest quality.

I hope that this response will not be viewed as either irrational or shortsighted. Thanks for your time and Go Sox!

Schill, As a veteran of this great country and a supporter of the second greatest nation in the world, meaning, the Red Sox nation I just want to say
1. Thanks for your talent, and
2. Vote for whoever the hell you want…The guys who are bashing YOUR RIGHT to say who you want to see as our next Pres. probably has no idea where his rights come from… and Sen. McCain and those like himself and I are the source of those rights.
Keep up the good work man, You’re a great pitcher and a great American, thank you

I also admire Senator McCain, and will vote for him if he is the Republican Party nominee. I am retired Army, and a die hard Red Sox Fan (Since 1965). I also admire you for doing the things you have done to support causes, and what you have brought to the Red Sox and baseball as a whole. I also am a Christian, and believe that we are not in the business of judging people. That is left up to God. I thank you and your teammates for the great thing you did for all us SOX fans in 2004 and 2007. I am so glad that you and Mike Lowell are coming back. The stage is set, and here are all my good thoughts for a repeat in 2008. God bless you and your family Curt, and keep doing those things that you do so well.

I appreciate the candor with which you write in this blog. And I agree with you – this is YOUR place, and therefore YOUR opinions should certainly be stated here. To say that baseball and politics don’t mix, well, that’s just wrong. I’m glad you defended yourself.

That said, I also appreciate your comments on the Bonds situation. It is a terrible thing for baseball, and a terrible thing for Mr. Bonds and his family, whether he is innocent or guilty of any wrong-doing.

Thank you for sharing your testimony here, by stating that your relationship with Christ has taken away your ability to hate. It speaks volumes when people like yourself are not afraid to attest to their beliefs.

Help me remember. I think Joe Nuxhall pitched a no-hitter for longer than 9 innings only to lose the game. Am I correct?

I support your comments about McCain. He is a true American who has served our nation with honor and intelligence for decades. In fact, his father and grandfather were both highly ranked and respected officers in the Navy and served our nation during WWII, Korea and Vietnam. McCain’s political sensibilities are close to mine as well. I don’t see McCain prevailing as the Republican candidate, unfortunately. Let’s see how he fares in NH.

Would you ever consider a post-baseball career in public service? I think you would be a terrific advocate.

If you really wanted to vote for the best PERSON you’d be voting for Ron Paul. You want character, conviction, a veteran and someone that cares about individual liberties? He’s your man.

You want another war-mongering demagogue? Go with nearly any other candidate (except Kucinich and MAYBE Obama). That includes McCain. He may not endorse the torture of “enemy combatants”, but he’s not going to do a damn thing about the downward spiral of our economy, bringing our troops home from Iraq, or being any less corrupt than the vast majority of politicians.

You may be a great pitcher and a charitable man, but your political knowledge and views make me nauseous.

Thank you so much for kind words for Joe Nuxhall and his family. I grew up listening to Nux and Al Michaels in the early 1970’s. Joe’s easy going personality and love for the game became obvious to the most casual listener.

Joe loved his team and became our eyes and ears for several decades ranging from the glory years of the “Big Red Machine” to the decline we have seen for way too long.

I don’t watch many professional sports now days as I have lost a great deal of interest. I’ve seen child hood heroes like Peter Rose fall into disgrace and now the current plague of steroids and substance abuse. I guess I’ve grown up and started to realize that professional athletes are normal people who happen to have extraordinary ability in a chosen sport, they, too, have demons to battle and overcome. I’ve decided like you Curt, to put my faith into something that is infallible.

As for Joe Nuxhall, The old left hander has rounded third, and is now HOME.

First off I want to thank your loyalty to the Red Sox. I have ran into you briefly a few times in the clubhouse. I work for Maggiano’s and happen to bring the food to you and the rest of the team quite a few times a year. I found your point on Senator McCain to be very well written. I admire the Senator from Arizona and would be ecstatic were he to be elected president. It is my belief as well, that a man such as John McCain, who was tortured and beaten for a number of years in a POW camp has more right to be president than the coward in the White House now. I think in 2000 Bush was wrong to smear McCain, but if John can put this one in the bag, I would be pleased. Anyway, thank you for the fine comments about a TRUE American hero. Enjoy your Thanksgiving and keep enjoying our food at Maggiano’s.

Hi Curt
Been a Red Sox man since I was 5. I remember them all from the time of Ted Williams through Tony C Yaz , Rice, and countless hundreds more. I remember the no-hitters from Parnell, Monbouquette, Wilson, Morehead and the latest Bucholz and more in between but I am amazed by the ignorance of people who just don’t get it that another man/woman’s choice is just that. Their choice. Like many others I may not agree with your choice. Big deal. So what. It’s yours and I will always respect that. Long ago I learned in elementary school that it was an individual right to grow and make decisions based on what was right for us an an individual. Now I grew up in a Yankee household. I was ridiculed for my love of the Sox but it taught me to stand by my values however small and insignificant. I am not a Yankee fan but I respect what they have accomplished. I remember the games between the Sox and the Yanks. I remember the wins and the losses. In the end what I remember the most is the respect they gave to each other. Respect. It seems to have been lost. But as I read your articles I appreciate you. I appreciate more and more respect. You bring back the memories of what seemed lost. Thanks Curt. As an American I stand to defend your choices not because you need me to but because you defend my right right to be different.
Thanks for openness and honesty. As a Red Sox fan I can say that you have made a big difference in me. You made me think and that is what a choice is all about. Thanks
David from the Philippines

I agree about the hate thing, it takes WAY too much energy to hate anyone.

Regarding the political thing, I really like the fact that you are using your “celebrity” to push your candidate. You have a brain, you use it, you also have a really big mouth which is a wonderful thing when it is backed up by a brain. I am so SICK of the hollywood/celebrity types who just spout crap with no substance.

Keep on yapping and blogging Curt you are a throwback to a time when people who had some kind of clout actually cared, used it and made a difference.

Expected. You did support Bush Jr., after all; why would you stray far from the ranks of Bible-thumping neo-conservatives now? Nothing anyone says or shows you will shake your blind faith in totalitarian, fear-mongering goons like Bush, Guiliani and McCain.

I’m a big admirer of your baseball and charity work, and the dedication you bring to it, but I really wonder about how you have to twist yourself logically to justify your choices of political canidates (I’m not talking about your politics, just the canidates you endorse). As someone has noted, your boy Bush ran one of the nastiest campaigns against McCain in SC (and other states).

And NOW it’s McCain’s turn . . . “this man will stick to his guns, and be himself, regardless of pressure from outside influences”. Are you serious? Before the campaign even started he covered himself in embarrassment when he went crawling to the foot of Jerry Falwell and the Christian right, a segment of society he had been quite critical of in the past.

Sorry, Mr. McCain seems like a nice enough person, he seems like a realatively humble person, but in no way do I think “sticking to his guns” (interesting turn of phrase, given that was the primary qualification of our current war president) qualifies someone to be president.

Bravo and well said. Ladies and Gentleman, freedom of speech is a wonderful and powerful thing. Anyone who comes on this blog, my blog, or anybody else’s blog to tell someone what they can or cannot post or believe is not seeing the point. It’s getting to the point where alot of people don’t want the best man to win, they just want their man to win. Curt gave some great points about who HE believes in. Isn’t that what it’s all about? Through seeing different sides of issues, we can actually learn.

I know that this is not a major media outlet, but I think it is really cool that you are willing to discuss your Christian beliefs in your blog. You are a really good writer and I enjoy your comments. Keep up the good work.

I respect John McCain more than any politician in the USA, period. I believe his position on the Iraq war is no BS and not politically motivated. When McCain says something, anything, I believe him… unlike most other candidates. I would think he would be a great president. While living in NH in 2000, as an independent, I voted for Senator McCain, and believe he was smeared by the Bush machine in SC and other states and that killed his campaign (lack of funds did too).

Today, I’m skeptical of McCain’s belief that we can actually win the Iraq war. I suppose, “win” isn’t the correct term… perhaps ‘control’ is a better term. We’ve been at it several years, and even if there is tactical successes, is it really realistic that there will be a long term solution? I mean I love McCain’s position, but I thought Bush would clean this thing up in a couple of years and it just got worst.

What I hope is if McCain becomes president, and realizes that his policies aren’t going to succeed, then he will find a way to detach ourselves from the war, instead of getting ourselves mired deeper and deeper.

As a fiscal conservative, it appalls me that we’ve spent so much on this pointless war. No, I’m not a Ron Paul fan, but Yes, what he is saying is real!!! Our initial and continued involvement in this is absurd. I agree with McCain, we can’t just back out, but we should have had the foresight to have not screwed this up in the first place.

Would love to hear back from you. One of your biggest fans… and love what you do with your public forum here.

hmmmm our next president, who should it be? ehhhh it doesn’t matter because both parties don’t give a darn about the average American citizen. I do know that Bush will go down as one of the worst presidents in this countries history alongside Harding. Bonds….its obvious that he was on something but the way he has been dogged is downright shameful when Bud Selig all but turn a deaf ear on the situation in baseball for the last decade. He should be the one indicted for obstruction of justice. I personally believe all professional athlete have taken or still take some type of performance enhancing drug whether its steriods or a GNC product As as McCain goes he lost my respect when he basically condone some old lady calling hilary clinton a b*tch……….it shows what he thinks of women by laughing and not checking that old bag for coming out her mouth like that……….That was a typical good ol boy response.

Joe Nuxhall will, indeed, be missed by those of us who, while we may be part
of Red Sox Nation, find ourselves living closer to Great American Ballpark.
I’m sure that he has now made it to home, safely, by a mile, and I wish peace
for his family and loved ones.

I see you have taken heat for your choice of McCain. He’s not my first choice – I’m supporting Edwards – but there is no question that McCain possesses honor and integrity in large quantities. Regardless, I am very glad you have
an opinion on matters political, and that you and yours intend to vote. The
shame is that half the citizens of this country don’t bother to vote.

I wanted to address the comments made by redsoxnational. There are a few differences between a Soldier and a Hero. First of all a soldier is somebody that does what other men and women are either too afraid, too lazy, or just too indifferent to care about the freedoms and rights that they take for granted all too often in this country. Any soldier deserves your upmost respect and praise. They are they ones that say “I will do what needs to be done, even if that means leaving my family, children, and friends. I will do that for you though we’ve never met.” I think everybody should spend some time with the men and women who have served this nation, and tell them how much you really appreciate what they have done for you. No matter what branch they served in or where they served. Especially our veterns from world war 2, because as it will time has continued on and no matter how much we think we will live forever it’s just not so. Also to those who served in vietnam. They did not get they same welcome home that I and many others got when we came home from Iraq. Which I would like to thank them, because I’m pretty sure they made sure we got what they didn’t.
Now if you were to ask me, and i’m pretty sure most other veterns the only real heros are the men and women like Sen. McCain who were captured and put through such hell. And it is my guess that if you were to ask him he would say that the real american heros are unfortunately the ones who are no longer here to hear our praises and grattitude.

awww curt please spare us the political ramblings, when you stumped for bush in boston it was bad enough, now you are berating a fan (gosox5555) for asserting that baseball and politics don’t mix? despite how badly worded and inconcise his comment was, he struck a point there. first of all the two don’t go well together, second of all if you are going to speak about how important free speech is (which i agree with) please don’t then hype up john mccain as a candidate, who has made it clear that free speech is only ok when it coincides with his political agenda (see mccain’s remarks on moveon.org’s ad regarding general petraeus ). to further point out mccain’s disdain for free speech, i quote reason.com;

“McCain and Sen. Russell Feingold (D-Wis.) sponsored a 2002 law that prohibits advocacy groups such as the National Rifle Association and the Sierra Club from paying for any radio or TV ad that mentions a federal candidate within two months of an election. As a result, active political participants (candidates and parties) and deep-pocketed media organizations can continue to attack and praise contenders, but independent groups may not (unless they form separate political action committees subject to federal contribution limits).”

on top of the senator’s actions regarding free speech, he strikes me generally as a manipulative, lying chickenhawk who is being personally groomed by the worst president in history as his successor. being held prisoner against your will doesn’t automatically make you a hero, especially if after such an ordeal you help create and subsequently support an unjust war in which thousands of americans have lost their lives.

sorry to leave such a negative comment on your blog after such an amazing season but i couldn’t resist throwing my hat in the ring. i really cant stand how you bring a conservative, right-wing agenda into such a staunchly liberal town as boston, my home of almost 30 years, and flaunt it in people’s faces. while i do appreciate all that you have done for our team and your endeavors off the field (such as you and your wife’s foundation), i often wish that your political views were as well-founded as your knowledge of the game and its history. please do not delete this message as soon as you read it, i agree with all of the comments left by those who support your right to speak your mind, especially because this in turn gives me the right to speak mine. go sox.

I completely disagree with gosox5555. I believe it is a person’s civic duty to express themselves and be involved in their community and thei country. I think many of us have lost sight of what this country is about. This country isn’t about politics, it is about us. The founding fathers wrote this in the Preamble to the Constitution.

“We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.”

That means us people. Whether you are a baseball player, a bartender (like me), a doctor, a housewife, a student or whatever, get involved and speak your mind. Be informed and realize, you opinion and your vote do matter. This is our country is about and the biggest disgrace of all is the apathy in our country. Read what Curt says about McCain and the sacrifices he made so that we can be free. Think of how many people have made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom and democracy over the past 2+ centuries so we can do exactly what Curt is doing, speak out and make choices.

OK. Now I will get off my soapbox.

Yesterday was a great day for Red Sox Nation. To know that Mike Lowell is coming back will make this off-season a lot more worry free for us. Thanks Mike for feeling the way you do about being a Red Sox and thanks Theo for making it happen.

Just wanted to say thanks for giving us fans the privilege of watching you pitch one more year in a Boston uniform. In regards to your political comments, you mentioned that you have done the research on the candidates and I was just wondering if you knew of any websites or groups that offered a summary of all candidates and their stances on the major issues? I hope you and your family have a very happy Thanksgiving and a Merry Christmas as well.

Perhaps predictably, three of four Boston Globe baseball writers picked the Red Sox to win the World Series. Dan Shaughnessy not only didn’t pick the Sox, he picked Toronto to win the AL East; Toronto missed the playoffs by 11 games. He did, however, pick the Dodgers to reach the World Series, losing to the Tigers; neither team made the playoffs.

Curt,
I know exactly what you mean when you say that, as a Christian, you are not able to hate anyone. There are people whose actions I dislike or make me angry, but I don’t hate the person. In fact, if it’s on a personal level, I often try to find a way to reconcile things with them, if I can do so without compromising my Christian values.

It’s a sad day when the biggest news in baseball is the announcement of another player suspected of doping. It kind of reminds me of the ’80’s when so many players were using cocaine. MLB and the Players Association need to quit squabbling about substance abuse policy and put a very strong policy in place. Like it or not ML ballplayers are role models. My 11 year old daughter loves Albert Pujols and Jim Edmonds, she really looks up to them. For her sake and for the sake of all the kids like her, Pujols, Edmonds, and all other ballplayers have a responsibility to set a good example. Barry Bonds once told a kid’s dad that he (Bonds) wasn’t a role model and it didn’t matter what he did and that the dad was supposed to be the kid’s role model. I guess when you grow up with Bobby Bonds as your father and Willie Mays as your godfather, it’s easy to look to your own family for your sports heroes. That isn’t the case for 99.99% of the kids out there, though. I grew up idolizing Keith Hernandez. When it came it out that he was using cocaine, I was devastated. I couldn’t believe my hero would do something like that. More than 20 years later, I’m still bitter about it, as a matter of fact. So, yeah, ballplayers are role models, like it or not. I like seeing guys like you, Curt, one of the best players in the game, posting blogs and being open and honest about what goes on. Thank you for that.

As for politics, I am supporting Sen. Obama in the upcoming election. However, I would have to say that Sen. McCain is my second choice. Of all the candidates, they seem to be the most sincere. I have supported Sen. McCain in the past. Frankly, I think it would be awesome if McCain and Obama could ignore party politics and run on the same ticket, but I don’t see that happening in the real world.

Curt and in response to others:
I did not mean to say that you shouldn’t have talked about politics. I also wanted to apologize about badly wording my comment. Of course you have the right to free speech. That’s not what I meant at all. I also apologizes for not researching enough. I read the blog through RSS and don’t see the homepage. I also want to apologize for asking an overly personal question.

First off, I’d like to thank you for coming back to the Red Sox. Your willingness (and Mike’s as well) to come back on a “discount” proves to us the fans, us the card carrying members of Red Sox Nation, that our team is the greatest out there. We’re starting to get hated on like the Yankmee’s in the media (the New Evil Empire I recall reading once) and yet there are veteran players taking pay cuts to stay around. The Red Sox are not the New Yankee’s, but as Pedroia and Ellsbury proved the Sox have a great farm system as well as great veterans.
The Sox aren’t the New Yankee’s, we’re the Twins with $$$$$

Secondly, I’d like to thank you for speaking your mind. And as you said (most strongly to gosox5555 recently): If you don’t like what I have to say, don’t read my blog! I do agree with you on some things (guns and gun control, taxes, more money for teachers) and disagree with you on others (mainly politics) but you do have a forum and you use it very well.

Third, do me a favor and tell the guys in the clubhouse that we’re insanely jealous of y’all. To roam the outfield with the ghosts Williams, Yaz, Rice, or Trot, to hit a walk off home run Papi style, to crouch behind home plate with Fisk or Tek (my favorite) are dreams we all had, or still have. We may be the same size as Manny, or have Pedroia’s range (during beer league softball), or even have to ability to grow a goatee as good as or better than Youks, but at some point we realized we weren’t good enough to play ball beyond Little League, or high school, or maybe even college . We’re all jealous. Y’all are living our dreams, for the team we love. And in turn, we love you for it. We appreciate the love y’all show towards the Team, and the City. Please share this with the guys.

1st – Thanks for a wonderful year, one of my greatest thrills was the Sunday night matchup v. Clemens (loss excluded). Though what an honor it was to see two future HOF’s duel at Fenway.

You get a lot of crap for voicing your opinions, but I like to think you are at least advancing a discussion. You have every right to discuss your beliefs if you wish. I disagree with who you believe is the best Republican candidate, I like Romney, but at least you have an opinion.

We are all tired of the canned athlete (Arod), until an athlete has an opinion(you), then we’re tired of them as well. More power to you and your family for putting yourself out there, and being a real human being.

And for those who want to make your $ an issue, shame on them. I’ll take it. I can’t imagine that level of income, but I’d take every penny if they would offer it to me.

My main problem isn’t that I don’t think you have a right to express your opinions even though I completely disagree with them and think that the worsening state of our country is because there are too many people who do agree with you (I’m sorry, but I don’t necessarily think that a president who will “Follow the terrorists to the gates of hell” is the type of levelheaded leader we need). Rather, it’s the fact that you don’t seem to think that other people can be justified in their opinion or express them. You say, “I am sure will generate irrational and short sighted responses.” It seems to me that you assume that anybody who disagrees agree with you is “irrational and short sighted.”

This issue doesn’t just come up politics, but with comments about players’ salaries and contract negotiation. Comparing average fans’ frustrations with players who are already making tens of millions dollars a year complaining about not being “respected” because they’re not getting a few more million to an average Joe having his boss walk into his office and offer him $10 million is absurd. In economics, money has what’s called diminishing marginal utility. That is, for every additional dollar you get, it improves your happiness by less than the dollar before. By the time you earn more money than you can possibly spend in a lifetime, it seems to most people that that utility should reach zero. The fact that you seem unable to comprehend that sentiment is one of the few things on this board that appears “irrational and short sighted” to me.

Curt, you seem like a wonderful guy. I have a great admiration for your spirit and passion for the Red Sox, your charities, your family and love of America. I have been a Red Sox fan since 1950. I grew up with a dad who voted Republican like you. He was a WWII veteran. He served in the 35th Division and this body of men were the ‘spearhead’ of General Patton’s 3rd Army. I grew up in the ’60s and have followed this treasure of New England since a time when there were only 2 African-Americans playing. I was sitting in the bleachers when Earl Wilson pitched his “no-hitter” and won the game with a two run HR into the net of the Green-monster. I am grateful that the Sox signed you and Mike Lowell. This is a different Red Sox. I hope Jim Rice gets into the “Hall of Fame” om 2008.
I will differer with you on your politics. I guess its fashionable for folks who ‘give their hearts’ to Jesus to side with a Republican. I don’t see what you see. I am disappointed deeply in the direction this administration took us these last 6 years.
I am not a Christian (born-again or otherwise). The Creator I worship is far more infinite than a personality. Sorry, Curt.
Great for you! God bless you and I pray you stay healthy. You are a great role model for young athletes. You are honest and have integrity.
I cannot take another 4-8 years of Republican control. Although I don’t agree with Sen. Clinton, I will probably vote Democratic. Everyone seems scared. In 2004, I worked for General Wesley Clark. Now compared to Kerry and your boy Bush, he was a true hero. Too bad the corporately controlled media steered voters towards the two previously named. I decided that he was the best and had the most experience in foreign affairs. I don’t think the Republican National Committee wanted their candidate to run against him.
Its your web log so you can say whatever you need to say. Thanks for allowing others points of view. This is American and because of that I truly respect you. The only two Republicans I respect beside you are Ted Williams and by far the 16th president, Abraham Lincoln.

I should say that politically you and I are totally apart. I am totally opposed to the war to the point that i am involved with a local antiwar group in my area. This is YOUR blog, though and you can say whatever you want on it and those who think otherwise have a problem.

Baseball (actually sports in general) and politics DO mix. How often have former politicians been mentioned for the Commissioner’s office. Who used to have part-ownership in the Rangers? And if Hollywood types can become politically active, why not athletes? From you on the Right, for example to those on the Left like Dave Meggyesey and Bill Walton, each one of us stands for what we believe in, and last time I checked that’s still allowable in the USA. Back when I was in high school (this was during Watergate), long (or combable) hair was seen as a Communist plot to undermine the foundation of the USA (oh, we were told that pictures of Jesus with long hair and a ponytailed Washngton on the dollar bill were just lies) and that jocks who had short hair were worthy citizens (I played soccer where our German-born coach didn’t care what we looked like) and that Nixon was a godly man (they must have never heard the tapes), blah blah blah.

Bottom line is that whatever your particular genre of life is (sports, the arts, business) it is inevitable that it will mesh on one way or another with politics. It’s a fact of life.

Thanks for letting me put my .02 in on this topic :)

(For the record, I will most lilely vote either Green or Socialist, as the only Democrat I would support, Kucinich, most likely will not get the nomination)

If clemens did use steroids then i’ll take back what i said, and i will agree that he should give up his cy young awards but if has hasnt used steroids U SHOULD RETIRE AND NOT OPEN UR MOUTH ABOUT THE SPORT AGAIN.

Curt, thank you for this opportunity. This is something I have wanted to say to you for three years and it’s nice to finally have the chance.

I was so happy when you decided to join the Red Sox and it has been great fun for us old farts to have our own old old fart (relatively speaking, of course) to root for. 2004 was an amazing year and your contributions, right up to the ‘bloody sock’ game were so integral to the team and deserving of their place in Red Sox Lore. We Sox fans will be eternally grateful to you for what you did and the sacrifices you made.

And that is what made it SO difficult and disappointing to watch you use the pedestal of our first World Championship in 86 years while it was still warm (the next morning, as I recall) to tell people to go out and vote for George Bush. That was the wrong forum, completely inappropriate and something I will never quite be able to forgive you for. I would never deny you the right to speak your opinion about anything, including that; however, that was not the time or the place for it, and for those of us trying to enjoy a long-awaited once-in-a-lifetime pure sports moment, I don’t think you get how offensive that was and that it sullied a magical moment forever. I think you owe the members of Red Sox Nation a BIG apology for that, and that’s not even taking into account that your boy W will eventually be rightly regarded as one of (if not THE) worst presidents in the history of our great nation. Are you proud of your endorsement now?

At least I do appreciate your waiting a couple of weeks until after the recent championship before telling us who you think we should vote for.

As a player and a competitor we will always love you, but this is one scar that will never totally go away. I guess my question would be, “Was it really worth it to piss in the soup like that?”

So you're like Walter white and I'm Tuco? Can't make this stuff upYou never know how strong you can be until being strong is the only choice you have 1 day ago

Sure. You have to "take out a loan" for startup, egg cartons and what not, I'll provide the eggs for a piece of the biz.. He saysYou never know how strong you can be until being strong is the only choice you have 1 day ago

True story. Have chicks now, raising egg layers. 12 year old asks if he can start an "egg selling" business when they start laying. so I sayYou never know how strong you can be until being strong is the only choice you have 1 day ago

Anyone else watch the dismantling of Scientology on HBO last night? Creepy as hell, every bit of it. If that isn't a cult nothing isYou never know how strong you can be until being strong is the only choice you have 1 day ago